Why Get The Best Latte Machine, When I Can Buy Lattes At The Coffee Shop?

I think you pretty much answered your question there.

Why would you buy your lattes at the coffee shop?

Unless you're a fan of standing in lines every morning and over-paying for a cup of coffee, I don't see how you would think that buying lattes at the coffee shop beats having your own best latte machine at home.

First off, it will save you a tremendous amount of money.

It may seem like a massive investment just because you're making it all at once, but how much do you spend in your local cafe on a monthly basis?

Go on, do the math, I'll wait. But I'm guessing you could pay off the best latte machine easily with that sum, couldn't you?

Also, it's more convenient that way. You don't have to plan your entire morning around the long line in the coffee shop – sleep in, make your latte, and start the day at your own pace. Doesn't that sound lovely?

And let's be honest:

It's way more fun figuring everything out on your own, experimenting with different flavors, and maybe even mastering the art of decorating lattes with those intricate shapes and patterns.

You can't tell me that doesn't sound exciting! 🙂

How To Pick The Best Latte Machine: Let Barbara Help You

I said this once already:

I am a night owl trapped in the life of an early bird.

And because of that, you can bet I know my coffee, as well as my coffee makers. If you want to find the best latte maker, there’s probably no better person to ask for help than me.

Here’s all you need to know!

1. Start By Setting Your Budget

Before we start talking about anything else related to your search for the best latte machine, I need to ask you something:

How much are you willing to spend?

When I get to the reviews of best latte machine, you'll notice that the prices vary drastically – from around a $100 all the way to a few hundred bucks. Where does your budget limit fall on the spectrum?

I'd like to point out one thing, though:

I don't recommend letting the cost be the primary driving factor for your purchase. Even if you opt for a lower-end latte machine, make sure it has at least a couple of the crucial features you're looking for in the best latte machine. Otherwise, you'll probably end up regretting the purchase altogether.

2. If You’re New To Making Lattes, Make Sure It’s Easy To Use

Sure, it looks simple when the barista does it, but once you're the one controlling all those levers, control keys and whatnot, you'll probably wish you bought a more user-friendly latte machine.

Consider this the best latte machine for "beginners", and once you master the art of making lattes, go treat yourself to a more advanced model, okay?

Ease of use also includes cleaning, by the way. It shouldn't take forever to take it apart, wash everything, then put it back together. Complicated cleaning process usually results in giving up on using the appliance entirely.

3. How Big Is The Reservoir?

Let me rephrase that:

How many people are going to use your new best latte machine?

You should choose the tank size depending on the answer – more massive reservoirs simply mean less frequent refills. And trust me, when it's time to show off your newly discovered barista skills in front of a group of friends, a more substantial reservoir is a life-saver.

On that note, I'd also like to point out that removable water tanks are enormous plus convenience-wise.

4. Consider Available Counter Space

Lastly, you need to figure out where you're going to put your new best latte machine. Is it going to replace your old coffee maker?

Or is it going to be just an additional kitchen appliance, one that lets you give in to your specialty coffee cravings, without having to spend money at the local coffee shop?

Think about this for a second. Why?

Because you need to make sure you have the space available for it in your kitchen, especially if you plan on using it every single day.

My friend Kate made the mistake of buying a latte machine without considering the footprint of the unit. Once she realized there's no way the appliance would fit on her kitchen counter, she had to move it into the pantry, and I've pretty much never seen her use it since.

Best Latte Machine Reviews: My Top 5 Recommended Models 2019

I saw this one was currently on sale, and I thought I had to include it in my round-up of best latte machines. I mean, why not get a decent latte machine, and save up some money at the same time, right?

The Aicok is capable of making several types of specialty coffee – espresso, latte, cappuccino, and Moka coffee – so no matter what your preferences are, rest assured their 2-in-1 espresso machine will be able to meet your needs.

The milk frother is built-in, too, which makes the entire process a lot faster, not to mention easier.

I have to add that the reservoir (and a large one, for that matter) is entirely removable, which will make refills and clean ups a breeze.

One of the not-so-great things about this espresso machine is the noise it makes while it's making your cup of coffee – especially the milk frother. That could be a bit of a problem if you're an early bird and get up well before the others in your household.

The real issue I've encountered is the leaking. It didn't happen often, it wasn't a constant problem, but every time it did, I ended up liking this unit a tiny bit less.

All of you that are new to the whole "home-based barista" thing we're talking about today pay attention to this particular model. It's one of my favorite candidates for the title of the best latte machine, especially for beginners. Why?

It's because all it takes to make coffee is a push of a button. Since all the vital parts – the espresso machine and the built-in milk frother – work together to give you a perfect latte every time, there's not much to worry about here. Oh, and when it's time to clean up, just remove the water and milk containers, as well as the drip tray, and give them a quick rinse.

Another thing I like about this model is how it looks on the kitchen counter. Thanks to the rather small footprint, it doesn't take up much space at all, but it's still a real eye-catcher. You know I like to keep my kitchen stylish at all times!

The only problem – and I realize not everyone will consider it a problem – is that the coffee doesn't come out very hot, especially if you add milk, as you would usually do when making a latte.

Pros

The one-touch design is straightforward to use

Removable parts for easy cleanup

Built-in milk heater

Makes several specialty coffee types

Compatible with Nespresso pods

Small footprint, ideal for kitchen counters

Reasonably priced

Cons

Those of you that already have some experience might find that this is the best latte machine for you; beginners, on the other hand, should probably keep on reading – this one takes some time and practice to get everything right.

Because of its hands-on approach, it offers lots of customizable options for making your daily cup of joe just the way you like it, one of them is choosing between pods and ground coffee. You can also use single or double espresso shot filter basket, depending on your preference.

I feel like there's no need to introduce you to Keurig – it's one of the most famous brands in the world when it comes to coffee-related products.

Here's what this particular model has to offer:

First off, I'd like to point out that it's incredibly easy to use. You'll find a couple of buttons located on top of the unit, for things like choosing between two espresso size options or three frothing modes – all in all, the operation is rather simple. And while you're making espresso on one side, milk is being frothed on the other.

Another thing I highly value about this model is its energy-saving mode, as well as the auto On/Off feature – you don't have to worry about leaving the latte maker on as you go out the door.

I was sad to hear that I can only use one type of pods with this latte machine. These aren't budget-friendly, and not just that – they aren't eco-friendly, either. And since I'm trying to teach my boys how to take care of our planet, I decided this one isn't the best latte machine for me.

It offers an outstanding level of versatility, both regarding what you're making, and how you're making it, as well. Here's what I mean:

Not only can you choose whether you'll make your coffee using beans or a pre-ground blend of your choice, but you can also decide not to make coffee at all. Namely, the milk frother also acts as a hot water dispenser, making it a perfect tool for brewing a cup of tea, instead. Matcha, anyone?

Everything is pretty easy to operate, from the LED panel, all the way to the front-loading reservoir, so don't worry about that – the whole thing is pretty self-explanatory.

I'm sad to say that the reservoir is rather small, and requires frequent refills. You should probably keep a water bottle near the unit to minimize your trips to the kitchen sink.

Not only is the reservoir small, but there are also leaks almost every time you brew a cup.

Although all the water goes into the drip tray, not the kitchen counter, it's still pretty annoying having to empty the "plate" so often.

Pros

You can use the frothing wand as a hot water dispenser

You can use whole beans or pre-ground coffee

LED screen and intuitive use

Front-loading reservoir

Fast clean up

Fairly small footprint

Cons

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Small water reservoir

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Drip tray requires frequent emptying

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Taller cups won’t fit

It’s Time For The Final Verdict: Best Latte Machine

I always like to try out the products before I recommend them to you, and these espresso-latte makers weren't any different.

So, which one of these is indeed the best latte machine currently available on the market?

Barbara Whitney

For the last 20 years, I’ve been cooking, preparing, researching, and gathering recipes, tools, and knowledge about food and the way we prepare it. Raising two lively boys and spoiling one great husband later, it’s safe to say that I’ve optimized my kitchen to deliver the best possible meal, no matter the occasion.

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